Not only do we carry gift cards from Starbucks for CMs but also for members of the military we see in our travels. The cards we give to military are placed inside a small prewritten thank you card expressing our thanks for service to our country. One example: In December 2019 we gave this simple jester of thanks to a man wearing a ballcap with a WWII marking. We went to take our seats on the plane after we handed the card to this man. It warmed our hearts as we heard his son explaining what the card was for as we were seated a few rows away. After the flight they waited to say thank you. For sure, the thanks was all ours. We enjoy the freedom to travel etc. because of those that have served. We use Starbucks as it is a popular chain and they do have drinks other than coffee or yummy treats. I also carry individually wrapped cookies from Cheryl's Cookies, a company in our great state of OH.
Before traveling I print out labels on the computer to stick to the back of the cookie package. We share with bus drivers, air flight crew and pilots (best reactions ever), check-in folks at the airport and hotel, and CMs at Disney. Our recognition and words of thanks never fail to bring a smile and in some cases a hug. We have even asked parent's permission and shared with little ones that are being well behaved and polite. (Note: TSA folks have declined the offer of the cookies. They are not permitted to accept a gift.) We enjoy Paying it forward in this small way. Numerous times we have also written letters to guest services regarding positive interactions with CMs. I have even taken pictures of nametags (with permission) so I do not forget the person. A letter with a specific name helps at GS, I assume. And I hope GS reaches out and shares the recognition.